Translational Cancer Genetics Lab
Located At University of Pavia, the Translational Cancer Genetics Lab investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving cancer development, progression, and adaptation, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic and diagnostic strategies. The laboratory is directed by Prof. Natalia Simona Pellegata, Principal Investigator.
About Us
Our research focuses on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms driving neuroendocrine tumor (NET) predisposition, development and progression, with the ultimate goal of identifying new therapeutic targets that can improve patient outcomes.
To achieve this, we use advanced patient-derived 3D in vitro systems and xenograft models that closely replicate the tumor microenvironment, enabling clinically relevant studies of NET biology from bench to bedside.
We integrate these models with comprehensive molecular and functional analyses and evaluate novel somatostatin analogs and key tumor cell state transitions to develop more effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with NETs.
Our Projects
In our lab, we study tumor biology to uncover vulnerabilities and translate them into new diagnostic and targeted treatment approaches
Cell Plasticity Project
Uncovering how PPGL tumors switch between pseudo-hypoxic and de-differentiated states to reveal new targeted therapies.
C-circles Project
Detecting C-circles in liquid biopsies to monitor ALT-positive ATRX/DAXX-mutant cancers.
M13 Phages Project
Developing targeted photodynamic therapy using engineered oncolytic phages to kill neuroendocrine tumor cells.
Receptors Project
Exploiting membrane receptor expression in NETs to develop targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Microenvironment Project
Defining microenvironment-driven metastasis in SDHB-mutated PPGLs to enable targeted therapies.
scRNA-Seq Project
Mapping cortex–medulla crosstalk in PPGLs to uncover mechanisms of tumor progression.
